REM sleep disorder causes violent physical movements during dreams due to a lack of nocturnal paralysis. It is more common in adult males and those with Parkinson’s disease, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, or insomnia. Treatment involves medication and close monitoring by a doctor. Most people experience a state of deep sleep, known as rapid eye movement […]
Getting a baby to sleep can be challenging, as each child is different. Ensure the baby’s basic needs are met, consider swaddling, and try different methods such as rocking or co-sleeping. It’s normal for babies to wake up at night, so consult parenting books and doctors for advice. When asking how to get your baby […]
Doctors evaluate patients complaining of sleep paralysis by asking about their lifestyle, sleeping position, medications, and mental health. Lack of sleep, disrupted sleep, sleeping on one’s back, and medication use can cause sleep paralysis. Mental illness and stress can also be factors. A doctor will evaluate whether one of the causes of sleep paralysis applies […]
To fall asleep, practice good sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, and establish a bedtime routine. Good sleep hygiene includes a regular schedule and avoiding sleep aids. Relaxation techniques include yoga and visualization. Establish a bedtime routine with activities like a warm bath, reading, and self-care. Avoid using the bedroom for anything other than sleeping and sex, […]
Circadian rhythm sleep disorders affect an individual’s ability to sleep and stay awake, disrupting the natural 24-hour cycle of the body clock. They can be intrinsic or extrinsic, and treatment options include medication, behavior therapy, and bright light therapy. The term circadian rhythm sleep disorder describes a group of sleep disorders that affect an individual’s […]
Dry mouth after sleeping can be caused by sleep apnea, dehydration, sleeping in a heated room, or medication use. Treating sleep apnea, staying hydrated, regulating room temperature, and switching medications can help alleviate symptoms. There are a wide variety of things that can contribute to the development of dry mouth. When a person develops dry […]
Delayed sleep phase syndrome is a disorder where people struggle to fall asleep at their desired bedtime, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and other symptoms. It can be treated with light therapy, chronotherapy, and supplements like melatonin or vitamin B12. A doctor will take a patient’s sleep history to diagnose the syndrome. Just as it […]
Lack of sleep can lead to drowsy driving and increase the risk of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Adults need 7-8 hours of sleep while children and teenagers need at least 10 hours. Insomnia can be prevented by avoiding caffeine and stressful events before bedtime, and a regular sleep schedule can help. […]
Meditation is a drug-free way to relax the mind and body for healthy sleep cycles. It takes practice but can improve sleep quality and reduce depression symptoms. Different types of meditation, such as breathing and sound meditation, can be effective. Many people have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. There are many alternative treatments that […]
One in four American couples sleep separately due to sleep disorders, different schedules, or preferences. The trend is expected to increase, with 60% of custom homes having double master bedrooms. Americans sleep with pets, while Mexicans watch TV and Japanese use technology before bed. Half of Americans snore. It is estimated that one in four […]
Shift work sleep disorder is caused by a disruption of the body’s natural circadian rhythms, making it difficult for individuals who work non-day hours to get restful sleep. Night shift workers are more likely to experience sleep disturbance, with nurses and law enforcement being particularly prone to the disorder. Some people can adapt to working […]
When choosing a sleep disorders clinic, consider the specific sleep disorder being treated, convenience of location, cost, and quality of care. For children, choose a clinic that specializes in child patients and has facilities for parents. Positive airway pressure treatment may require additional support. A sleep disorders clinic is a specialized facility that treats a […]
Laughter may increase melatonin production, which regulates sleep cycles, according to research analyzing the breast milk of nursing mothers who watched a comedy film. Laughter may also reduce stress levels and have other health benefits, including pain reduction and calorie burning. Laughter could help people sleep better because it encourages the body to produce melatonin, […]
Sleep deprivation can lead to hallucinations, which can be severe and even cause a person to lose their grip on reality. Lack of sleep can also lead to other health risks, affect career prospects, and require medical intervention such as sleeping pills. Sleep deprivation and hallucinations are linked because not getting enough sleep can lead […]
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can cause damage to teeth and jaw pain. It is often caused by stress or abnormal tooth growth. A mouth guard can help train the jaw to stop clenching, while addressing the cause of stress can also help. Children may also experience bruxism due to abnormal tooth growth. Almost as common […]
Proper sleeping posture preserves the natural curves of the spine, preventing chronic back pain and fatigue. Adjustments can be made for side, back, and stomach sleepers to maintain the spine’s curvature. Side sleepers should place a pillow between their knees, back sleepers should place a pillow under their knees, and stomach sleepers should place a […]
5-HTP is a natural supplement that raises serotonin levels in the brain, aiding in relaxation and sleep. It is a popular alternative to prescription medication for mild to moderate depression and has few side effects. The connection between 5-HTP and sleep involves the action of the supplement to raise serotonin levels in the brain by […]
40 million Americans have chronic sleep disorders and 20 million have short-term sleep problems. The elderly are most affected. Common disorders include insomnia and sleep apnea, costing $16 billion in medical costs annually. Sleep deprivation can lead to falling asleep while driving and weight gain. We spend two hours dreaming each night. An estimated 40 […]
A sleep EEG measures brain activity and is used to determine if a patient is experiencing all five levels of sleep. Each level is characterized by different brainwave patterns and corresponds to different stages of sleep. Level 5, or REM sleep, is believed to be important for overall health. A sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) is used […]
Sleep masks block out light to help people fall asleep in bright conditions. They come in various designs, are adjustable, and can be used for sleeping or before bed. Some masks can be cooled or heated and are useful for travelers and shift workers. When selecting a mask, pay attention to materials to avoid allergic […]
